It is known that some substances act on the same part of the brain that alcohol did and can trigger the phenomenon of craving. If that should happen, it is no longer a matter of choice. Apparently quite a few long time sober alcoholics are turning up in rehab again having had this experience. They took the prescribed medication, it triggered the craving and they drank.
I don't know if dope falls into that category, but smoking weed, just a puff, led to my last extended relapse after 3-4 months dry. As I remember it changed the way I felt in that I immediately felt a drink would be ok, and a few seconds later it was all over. Drinking was not the plan. Some addicts I knew thought they would help me stay sober and have a good time by giving me the dope. They did not want me to drink anymore than I did. They knew what I was like.
I appreciate your post Leana. I have heard many others share the same kinds of experience. Whenever my doctor or dentist proposes any medication, we always have a good talk about it first.